Epidemiology and Implications of Post-intensive Care Syndrome (PICS) in ICU Survivors

<bold>Background:</bold> Post-intensive care syndrome (PICS) remains a significant concern for ICU survivors. Our study probes into the prevalence of PICS after discharge from a respiratory ICU and delves into its associations with ICU-specific variables, severity of illness, and subsequent quality of life. <bold>Methods:</bold> Starting with 122 ICU patients, 44 were set aside due to mortality or readmission within a span of 6 months. For the assessed 78 patients, both the HABC and SF 36 tools were administered 3 months post-ICU discharge. <bold>Results:</bold> The mean HABC score stood at 7.10. Out of this cohort, 20 manifested moderate PICS, with 58 showing mild symptoms. The functional facet of HABC bore the brunt. A striking correlation (p=0.00001) emerged between the APACHE II scores (mean: 10) and the HABC scores. The p/f ratio and the PaCO2 on admission , along with the APACHE II scores showed significant correlation with the HABC scores. Notably, a pronounced negative relationship existed between HABC scores and the SF 36, implying a decline in quality of life as PICS severity surged. <bold>Conclusion:</bold> A sizable fraction of ICU survivors grapple with PICS, predominantly in the form of functional disturbances. The APACHE II scores and blood gas parameters on admission ,significantly impact PICS manifestation. The marked inverse association between HABC and SF 36 underscores the adverse effects of PICS on post-ICU quality of life, highlighting the need for specialized interventions in the recovery phase. <bold>Reference:</bold> Narváez-Martínez MA, Henao-Castaño ÁM. Severity classification and influencing variables of the Postintensive Care Syndrome. Enferm Intensiva. 2023 Jul 28;S2529-9840(23)00042-3.